BIO-TRACE: Molecular Detection, Environmental DNA and Predictive Modelling for Wildlife Trade Control and Invasive Species Prevention

BIO-TRACE proposes the development and validation of molecular and spatial tools to support the identification of wildlife species, early detection of invasive alien species (IAS), and assessment of invasion risks associated with trade and transport pathways.

The initiative combines molecular genetics, DNA barcoding, metabarcoding, environmental DNA (eDNA), biodiversity monitoring and species distribution modelling. Particular attention will be given to aquatic organisms and invertebrates, while the proposed approaches may be adapted to other taxonomic groups.

Our research team can contribute to six interconnected activities.

1. Molecular identification of wildlife species

Developing and validating DNA-based identification approaches for species relevant to wildlife trade control, including protected, regulated and potentially invasive organisms. Activities may include reference sequence analysis, DNA barcoding, marker selection and evaluation of identification reliability.

2. Metabarcoding and eDNA-based detection

Developing and testing metabarcoding and eDNA workflows for detecting target species in environmental samples and complex biological materials. Potential applications include monitoring aquatic environments, transport-associated water and other suitable samples linked to introduction pathways.

3. Early detection of invasive alien species

Integrating molecular detection with biodiversity monitoring to identify non-native species at early stages of introduction or establishment. Developing recommendations for sampling strategies, molecular screening and confirmation of positive detections.

4. Species distribution modelling and invasion risk assessment

Applying GIS-based spatial analysis and species distribution modelling to assess current and potential ranges of invasive species, identify environmentally suitable areas and evaluate possible expansion under climate change and other environmental pressures.

Combining distribution models with information on introduction pathways may support risk prioritisation and targeted surveillance.

5. Validation of diagnostic and predictive tools

Collaborating with competent authorities and technology partners to evaluate molecular and spatial approaches under operationally relevant conditions. The work may include assessment of diagnostic accuracy, detection limits, reproducibility, sampling requirements and practical applicability.

6. Integration into monitoring and decision-support systems

Contributing molecular identification results, spatial risk maps and methodological recommendations to digital tools for invasive species surveillance and wildlife trade control.

Working with consortium partners to support data exchange, early-warning procedures and the practical use of scientific results by responsible authorities.

Expected Contribution to the Consortium

Our research team can contribute expertise in molecular genetics, DNA barcoding, metabarcoding, eDNA analysis, aquatic biodiversity and invertebrate taxonomy, ecological monitoring, GIS-based analysis and species distribution modelling.

Potential contributions include molecular identification protocols, reference sequence datasets, metabarcoding and eDNA workflows, spatial distribution models, invasion risk maps, validation studies and scientific guidance for species detection and monitoring.

Proposed Role in the Consortium

Scientific and methodological partner for molecular species identification, DNA metabarcoding, eDNA-based detection, invasive species distribution modelling and validation of biodiversity surveillance tools.

We are interested in work packages focused on molecular diagnostics, early detection of invasive species, spatial risk assessment, methodological validation and integration of scientific evidence into operational monitoring systems.

BIO-TRACE aims to translate molecular and ecological research into practical tools supporting wildlife trade control, invasive species prevention and biodiversity protection.